Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Surprise! It's Already Started.

Blogs and websites are already starting to report the "Windows Upgrade Hell" that many are experiencing when upgrading their systems from Windows Vista to the New Windows 7 operating system.

College students, too, are experiencing problems when trying to install the new Windows 7. The problem stems from a Microsoft offer. For a limited time, students can purchase Windows 7 for only $29.00. However, it appears when students download and install the package, it's either corrupt of missing some key files.

I spoke with my nephew Mike (he has a CSI degree and works in the IT field) about installing Windows 7. He was on his way to his local MicroCenter to buy a copy of Windows 7. (He has to keep up with anything and everything new in the computer industry. And yes, he runs Linux) When installing Windows, Linux, etc., Mike always backs up his files, wipes his hard drive, and then does a fresh install.

Ultimately, these folks are going to have to do the same thing. Microsoft recommends this for sure if you're moving from Windows XP to Windows 7.

"If you are aiming to upgrade directly from Windows XP to Windows 7, be aware that Microsoft doesn't recommend it. Not only is it likely to take significantly longer, the directory structure is different between the two and many applications may not work if not run after a "fresh" installation."

So, if you're going to upgrade, why not just upgrade to a better OS? Back up your files, wipe your hard drive, and simply install Linux. You'll be more secure, have thousands of free software titles available, and the price is a lot less than the $200+ that M$ is asking. Heck, Linux is even less expensive that the $29.00 students are paying. Linux is free!